Abandoned boat skipper feared lost at sea

Posted on July 07^th 2008

The skipper of a converted ship’s lifeboat is feared lost at sea as his deserted boat is found drifting two days out from Milford Haven.

The vessel, Midnight Oil, had already been towed into Milford Haven, on the 21st June, after the owner Mr Smith and his son had developed engine trouble whilst travelling down the west coast from Scotland.

After repairs were completed Mr Smith went out alone on the 28th June. A Fishing boat raised the alarm after finding the vessel on the 30th June.

A RNLI lifeboat, coastguard helicopter and a Royal navy ship searched the area to no avail. The police are treating the case as a missing person after Mr Smith personal effects were found on board with the engine in working order.

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